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This retrospective case series reports on French bulldogs diagnosed with patellar maltracking without patellar luxation. We describe clinical presentation, joint exploration, and surgical treatment with patellar groove replacement to alleviate maltracking in the first attempt. Three French bulldogs were included. Clinical presentation was similar in all cases, with intermittent skipping lameness of 1 hind limb, absence of patellar luxation, and patellar maltracking. Joint exploration revealed abnormal conflict between the patella and medial ridge of the trochlea, with secondary severe erosion of articular cartilages of both patella and medial ridge of the trochlea. Patellar groove replacement was completed without perioperative or postoperative complications. Follow-up results and owner satisfaction were excellent in all cases. Patellar maltracking should be included as a differential diagnosis for stifle lameness in French bulldogs. Patellar groove replacement should be considered to alleviate maltracking associated with secondary severe patellofemoral erosion. Key clinical message: Patellar maltracking seems to be a misdiagnosed component of patellar luxation in the dog, particularly in the French bulldog. Patellar groove replacement may be a first-attempt surgical treatment to alleviate the maltracking., (Copyright and/or publishing rights held by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.)

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the treatment success of dogs with medial coronoid disease (here: Fragmented Coronoid Process [FCP]) following arthroscopically performed subtotal coronoidectomy by the use of subjective and objective gait analysis and the evaluation of osteoarthritis progression in addition to their correlation with the findings from postoperative computed tomography. In particular, the clinical relevance of residual particles remaining postoperatively was to be evaluated., Material and Methods: Thirty elbows from 24 dogs of different breeds were examined clinically, orthopedically, using gait analysis as well as radiographically at least 6 months after unilateral or bilateral subtotal coronoidectomy. The results were compared with the preoperative findings of the corresponding examinations and postoperative computed tomography., Results: 79.2% (19/24) of the patients improved by at least one degree of lameness in the orthopedic examination, 66.7% (16/24) were free of lameness. 60% (18/30 joints) showed an increase in the degree of arthrosis. Postoperative computed tomography revealed small residual bone particles (<1 mm) in the joint space or soft tissue in 56.7% (17/30) of the joints. No significant association was evident between residual lameness and residual particles remaining within the joint postoperatively. An association between persistent lameness and progression of arthrosis was also not be demonstrable., Conclusion: No evidence was apparent supporting a link between residues of small bone particles after arthroscopic subtotal coronoidectomy and postoperative lameness. The progression of osteoarthritis could not be interrupted despite the surgical intervention., Clinical Relevance: When small residual particles (<1 mm) remain after subtotal coronoidectomy, these do not appear to have any influence on the clinical outcome., Competing Interests: Die Autoren bestätigen, dass kein Interessenkonflikt besteht., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To describe the successful surgical management of a previously unreported Salter-Harris type I fracture of the accessory carpal bone in a dog., Animal: An 11-week-old intact female Golden Retriever-Poodle cross presented with a history of a marked left forelimb lameness following a suspected fall from a height., Clinical Presentation, Progression, and Procedures: On physical examination, the patient demonstrated a severe left forelimb lameness and pain on palpation and range of motion of the left carpus. Orthogonal radiographs of the distal left forelimb demonstrated a type I Salter-Harris fracture of the accessory carpal bone with proximal displacement of the palmar fragment., Treatment and Outcome: The patient underwent open reduction and internal fixation wherein the fracture was reduced and stabilized with two 1.1-mm Kirschner wires. Postoperatively, the patient was initially managed with a carpal flexion bandage for 2 weeks and then a soft padded bandage was maintained until 4 weeks postoperatively. The patient recovered well and was walking and weight-bearing comfortably following removal of the carpal flexion bandage. Repeat radiographs performed 4 and 8 weeks postoperatively demonstrated adequate fracture healing but showed mild proximocaudal implant displacement. Implant removal was not performed, as the patient was doing well at home and the implant migration appeared static and was not causing clinical morbidity., Clinical Relevance: To the authors' knowledge, this was the only reported case of a Salter-Harris fracture of the accessory carpal bone in a dog and the only described case of successful surgical stabilization.

Case History: Two mature, large breed dogs presented with chronic lameness and discomfort localised to the stifle., Clinical Findings: No hindlimb deformities were present on physical examination or radiographic evaluation. No stifle instability was present. Arthroscopy revealed severe (grade 5/5 modified Outerbridge score) cartilage erosion in the lateral compartment (femorotibial), marked degeneration of the lateral meniscus and early cranial cruciate ligament disease in both patients., Treatment and Outcome: Medial-closing, medially translating, centre-of-rotation-of-angulation-based, levelling osteotomy (mcmtCBLO) was performed in both patients. The procedure aims to shift the pelvic limb's mechanical axis medially to reduce pressure in the lateral compartment while also reducing craniocaudal shear forces by lowering the tibial plateau angle.Eight weeks after surgery one patient's lameness had resolved while the other had improved significantly. Second-look arthroscopy performed at this time revealed fibrocartilage formation in the lateral compartment without progression of cruciate disease in both cases. At long-term follow-up (approximately 3 and 5 years), favourable outcomes (no or minimal lameness, mild or moderate osteoarthritis) were identified on the long-term owner survey, lameness examination and radiographs., Clinical Relevance: mcmtCBLO reduced or eliminated short- and long-term lameness in these two cases afflicted by concurrent lateral compartment and early cranial cruciate ligament disease.

Objective: To report a case of unilateral lateral coronoid process fragmentation in a dog treated via lateral elbow arthroscopy portals., Animal: A 9-month old male intact English Bulldog., Study Design: Case report., Methods: The dog presented with a history of intermittent right thoracic limb lameness. Orthopedic examination on presentation was unremarkable. Computed tomography of the right thoracic limb was pursued and revealed a mineralized focus along the lateral margin of the lateral coronoid process as well as sclerosis of the medial coronoid process and subtrochlear region of the ulna. Elbow arthroscopy was performed via a lateral approach and revealed chondromalacia of the entire lateral coronoid process. Abrasion arthroplasty of the lateral coronoid process was performed., Results: Complete resolution of the lameness was achieved within two weeks of surgery. At 6 weeks postoperatively, the dog remained sound and a gradual return to normal activity was recommended. At the final follow up assessment, 5 months after surgery, no abnormalities were found on orthopedic examination and the owners reported excellent limb function with no observable lameness., Conclusion: Lateral coronoid disease can occur as a rare component of elbow dysplasia in dogs. Abrasion arthroplasty via lateral arthroscopic portals may have resulted in a successful outcome in this case and may form an effective treatment option for lateral coronoid disease in dogs., (© 2024 The Authors. Veterinary Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: Chronic foot pain, a common cause of forelimb lameness, can be treated by palmar digital neurectomy (PDN). Complications include neuroma formation and lameness recurrence. In humans, neuroanastomoses are performed to prevent neuroma formation. The aim of the study was to evaluate the outcome of horses undergoing dorsal-to-palmar branch neuroanastomosis following PDN., Study Design: Retrospective case series., Animals: Eighty-five horses with PDN and dorsal-to-palmar branch neuroanastomosis., Methods: Medical records for horses undergoing this procedure at two hospitals between 2015 and 2020 were reviewed. Palmar and dorsal nerve branches of the PDN were transected and end-to-end neuroanastomosis was performed by apposition of the perineurium. Follow-up was obtained from medical records and telephone interviews. Success was defined as resolution of lameness for at least one year., Results: Lameness resolved following surgery in 81/85 (95%) horses with 57/84 (68%) sound at one year. Postoperative complications occurred in 19/85 (22%) cases. The main limitations of the study were an incomplete data set, inaccurate owner recall, and variations in procedure., Conclusion: Compared to previous studies, this technique resulted in similar numbers of horses sound immediately after surgery, a comparable rate of postoperative neuroma formation but a higher recurrence of lameness rate at 1 year postoperatively., Clinical Significance: End-to-end neuroanastomosis of the dorsal and palmar branches of the PDN does not reduce the rate of neuroma formation in horses. Long-term outcome was less favorable compared to previously reported PDN techniques., (© 2024 American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Equine subchondral lucencies (SCL) have been described since the first availability of suitable radiographic equipment. The initial clinical sign can be lameness, but SCLs are often first found on surveys of juvenile horses and are primarily a radiographic concern for public auctions. When lameness is present, it varies from subtle to obvious and can be intermittent. Some SCLs heal spontaneously, and some remain blemishes, but when the SCL and lameness are persistent, further damage to the joint and limitations to an athletic career are likely. SCLs were initially described in the distal limb followed by the stifle, and the medial femoral condyle (MFC) is now considered the most common location. The aim of this review is to highlight the initial pathology and discuss the clinical and experimental information available on equine SCLs. SCL treatment has evolved from rest alone and has progressed to debridement, grafting, intralesional injection, and most recently, transcondylar screw and absorbable implant placement. Comparison of success rates between techniques is difficult due to variations in follow-up and outcome measures, and no single technique is best for all SCLs. Treatment appears to increase success by 15%-20% over rest alone, but the method chosen depends on many factors. This review emphasizes the need for further work to fully understand SCL formation and all aspects of trabecular bone healing to optimize surgical therapy and improve treatment success., (© 2024 American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Case Series Summary: This case series describes the clinical findings and surgical intervention of 86 declawed cats; 52 from a shelter or rescue and 34 owned cats. Historical reports from owners and shelter staff included house-soiling, biting behavior, repelling behavior, barbering, lameness, chronic digit infection and nail regrowth. All the cats had fragments of the third phalanx (P3) of varying sizes diagnosed on radiographs. Pathology visible on examination included digital subcutaneous swelling, ecchymosis, malaligned digital pads, ulcerations, exudate, tendon contracture, nail regrowth and callusing. Surgery was pursued in these cases to remove the P3 fragments, relieve tendon contracture and reposition the digital pads with an anchoring suture. Gross findings intraoperatively included fragmented growth of cornified and non-cornified nail tissue, osteophytes on the surface of the second phalanx, deep digital flexor tendon calcification, and both bacterial and sterile exudate. The most common complication 14 days postoperatively was mild (14%) to moderate (1%) lameness. All historical parameters recorded improved in both populations of cats (house-soiling, biting behavior, repelling behavior, barbering, lameness, tendon contracture and chronic digit infection). Postoperatively, 1/47 cats exhibited continued malalignment of two digital pads and there were no reports of long-term postoperative lameness., Relevance and Novel Information: Two methods of declawing cats are detailed in the veterinary literature, including partial amputation of P3 and disarticulation of the entire P3 bone. The novel information in this report includes historical and clinical signs of declawed cats with P3 fragments, intraoperative gross pathology, surgical intervention and the postoperative follow-up results., Competing Interests: Conflict of interestThe author declared the following potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article. The author is a volunteer member of the Paw Project, serving as both the Indiana (2014–2017) and Texas (2017–2023) state directors.

Objectives: To quantify the physical activity levels in dogs with cranial cruciate ligament rupture before and after lateral fabellar suture stabilisation surgery., Materials and Methods: Seventeen dogs (mean weight, 12.3±5.1 kg) with unilateral cranial cruciate ligament rupture were fitted with an accelerometer for seven consecutive days at four different time points: before surgery (T0), one (T1), three (T3) and six (T6) months after surgery. The total activity and times spent in sedentary activity, light to moderate activity and vigorous activity were recorded by the accelerometer, and preoperative and postoperative data were compared. At all time points, dogs underwent clinical evaluations (lameness score, stifle pain score and thigh circumference) and their owners were asked to respond to questionnaires to subjectively score the physical activity and quality of life of the dogs., Results: At the four time points, the dogs spent between 21.2 and 21.4 hours on sedentary behaviour, 2.3 and 2.5 hours performing light to moderate activity, and 13 to 15 minutes performing vigorous activity. There was no increase in physical activity variables or decrease in sedentary behaviour over time. Lameness scores, pain score and dogs' quality of life improved significantly during the postoperative period. At T6, 17 (100%) of 17 dogs presented no lameness, 16 (94%) of 17 dogs presented no stifle pain, 16 (94%) of 17 owners rated the quality of life as very good and excellent, and 16 (100%) of 16 owners reported a total return to normal activity levels., Clinical Significance: The clinical recovery after extracapsular stabilisation of the stifle joint was not associated with a spontaneous increase in physical activity or a decrease in sedentary behaviour., (© 2023 British Small Animal Veterinary Association.)

Case History: Medical records from three veterinary referral centres and a university veterinary teaching hospital in Australia and the USA were reviewed to identify dogs with a diagnosis of distal gastrocnemius musculotendinous junction rupture (DGMJR) that were treated without surgery between 2007 and 2020., Clinical and Imaging Findings: All dogs (n = 11) presented with unilateral, pelvic limb lameness and bruising, swelling or pain on palpation at the distal musculotendinous junction. The diagnosis was confirmed with ultrasound or MRI in six dogs; radiographs were used to excluded stifle and tarsus pathology in four dogs; and five dogs were diagnosed on physical examination findings., Treatment and Outcome: All dogs were managed conservatively, either with complete confinement alone (n = 10; median 9 weeks), external coaptation alone (n = 1), or a combination of both (n = 4). Sporting dogs (n = 7) were completely confined (median 22 weeks) for longer periods than companion dogs (n = 3; median 5 weeks).A good to excellent outcome was achieved for all cases in this cohort. The seven sporting dogs achieved an excellent outcome; returning to their previous level of sport, with complete resolution of lameness and recovery of a normal tibiotarsal stance. The four companion dogs achieved a good outcome; returning to their previous level of activity but with persistently increased tibiotarsal standing angle compared to the contralateral limb., Clinical Relevance: Conservative treatment represents a viable treatment option for dogs with a rupture of the gastrocnemius muscle at its distal musculotendinous junction.

Objective: To describe the dome trochleoplasty procedure and report the short-term outcomes and complications associated with a novel technique to correct patellar luxation and patella alta., Animals: 13 dogs (16 stifle joints) diagnosed with medial patellar luxation with concurrent patella alta in dogs > 20 kg., Clinical Presentation: Medical records of dogs weighing > 20 kg that underwent a dome trochleoplasty for correction of a medial luxating patella were prospectively evaluated. The procedure described involves an osteotomy of the femoral trochlea, which is then translated and/or rotated to correct patellar luxation. Clinical results were assessed using subjective lameness scoring, radiographic evaluation, and the Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) tool., Results: 16 stifle joints were included in this study. The overall complication rate was 50%. Major complications occurred in 43.8% of stifle joints due to pin migration and recurrent luxation of the patella. One dog experienced a catastrophic complication 4 months postoperatively. Uncomplicated osteotomy healing was present in 94% of dogs. The median initial lameness score was 2 (mean, 1.81; range, 0 to 4) and at the final recheck was 0 (mean, 0.31; range, 0 to 2). The CBPI scores were available for 50% of stifle joints. The median initial CBPI score was 45.5 (mean, 48.8; range, 32 to 74) and at the final recheck was 17.5 (mean, 20.5; range, 0 to 43)., Clinical Relevance: The dome trochleoplasty procedure offers an alternative technique for surgical correction of patellar luxation secondary to patella alta in large-breed dogs, but due to its higher complication and reluxation rates, it should be used cautiously and probably in combination with other corrective procedures, such as tibial tuberosity transposition, soft tissue imbrication, and/or soft tissue release rather than as a stand-alone procedure.

Objective: To assess the effect of arthroscopic partial meniscectomy in dogs with bucket handle meniscal tears and tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO), compared with dogs with cranial cruciate ligament rupture and no meniscal tear treated by TPLO alone., Animals: 30 client-owned dogs with cranial cruciate rupture treated by either TPLO and arthroscopy alone if the meniscus was normal (normal meniscus [NM] group, n = 14) or by TPLO and an arthroscopic partial meniscectomy if a bucket handle tear was diagnosed (meniscal tear [MT] group, n = 16)., Methods: Medical records, lameness score, and symmetry gait analysis parameters were retrospectively collected from patient records preoperatively (PreO), then at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively (M1, M3, and M6, respectively). Osteoarthritic (OA) radiographic score was performed and compared at PreO and M6., Results: PreO gait analysis parameters were lower in the MT group (P < 0.005). In the MT group, the lameness score significantly improved between PreO and M1, and there were no significant differences between groups at M6. OA score was significantly higher in the MT group at PreO and M6. However, postoperative progression of OA did not differ between the 2 groups (P = 0.16)., Clinical Relevance: Treatment for meniscal tear results in a significant improvement in lameness, with postoperative outcomes at 6 months comparable with dogs with intact menisci. Despite having significant osteoarthritic lesions at all time points, the progression of osteoarthritis is similar between dogs with meniscal tears and those with intact menisci.

Objective: To report arthroscopic osteochondral fragment removal from the equine cervical spine articular process joints (APJs) including long-term follow-up., Study Design: Case series., Animals: Three Warmblood horses with forelimb lameness and/or reduced range of motion of the cervical spine with osteochondral fragments between the cervical vertebrae C 5 /C 6 or C 6 /C 7 ., Method: Arthroscopy of the APJs of C 5 /C 6 and C 6 /C 7 was performed under general anesthesia. Following endoscopic evaluation of the joints, osteochondral fragments were removed using a rongeur., Results: All horses recovered from anesthesia with no anesthetic or minor postanesthetic complications. One horse needed a second procedure for fragment removal. Fourteen to 31 months post-surgery the horses were sound for their intended use and neurological examination revealed no abnormalities., Conclusion: Arthroscopic removal of osteochondral fragments can be performed safely in the equine cervical APJs of C 5 /C 6 and C 6 /C 7 resulting in a favorable long-term outcome., Clinical Significance: Arthroscopic removal is a valid option for horses showing clinical signs that can be attributed to osteochondral fragments in the APJs of the neck., (© 2021 The Authors. Veterinary Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: To evaluate long-term clinical outcomes of dogs surgically treated for proximal humeral osteochondrosis (OC)., Study Design: Cross-sectional study., Sample Population: Twenty dogs (n = 26 shoulders)., Methods: Dogs treated with surgical debridement of proximal humeral OC lesions >12 months prior were enrolled. Orthopedic examination (including limb circumference and shoulder goniometry), kinetic gait analysis, shoulder radiographs, shoulder computed tomography (CT), and shoulder arthroscopy were performed. All owners completed a dog mobility questionnaire., Results: Brachial circumference (P = .003) and maximum shoulder extension (P = .013) were decreased and maximum shoulder flexion (P = .008) was increased (ie less flexion) in the OC limb versus the contralateral limb in unilaterally affected dogs. There were no differences in peak vertical force and vertical impulse between affected and unaffected limbs. Dogs demonstrated a 4.4% decrease in load distributed to the operated limb. Osteoarthritis was present in all shoulders treated for OC lesions. The degree of osteoarthritis in OC-affected shoulders was increased compared to the contralateral limb as evaluated on CT (P = .005) and radiography (P = .0001) in unilaterally affected cases. Moderate-to-severe synovitis was seen in all OC-affected joints. Arthroscopically, all lesions were noted to have patchy, incomplete cartilaginous infilling. Median of aggregate Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs (LOAD) scores was 6., Conclusion: All dogs exhibited ipsilateral muscle atrophy and progressive osteoarthritis, with most dogs exhibiting subtle lameness on the subjective gait examination. Despite this, owner-perceived mobility was satisfactory., Clinical Significance: Progression of joint disease over time should be expected; however, the abnormalities detected on examination appear to be of questionable clinical relevance., (© 2022 American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: To determine the accuracy of needle arthroscopy (NA) for the diagnosis of medial meniscal tears in dogs with cranial cruciate ligament rupture (CCLR)., Study Design: Prospective clinical trial., Animals: Twenty-six client-owned dogs., Methods: Dogs with CCLR and scheduled to undergo tibial plateau leveling osteotomy were recruited for the study. Needle arthroscopy was performed by an experienced surgeon; the same dog subsequently underwent standard arthroscopy (SA) by another experienced surgeon who was blinded to the NA findings. The SA arthroscopy findings were used as the gold standard. Arthroscopy time, visibility of the menisci, ability to probe the menisci, and the presence of meniscal tears were recorded for both arthroscopies. The degree of lameness before and after NA was subjectively quantified., Results: The sensitivity and specificity to diagnose medial meniscal tears with NA was 95% and 100%, respectively. Visibility of the menisci was lower (P < .01), probing of the lateral meniscus was harder (P = .0017), and procedure time was shorter (P = .073) with NA when compared to SA. The lameness scores did not differ before and after NA (P = .25)., Conclusion: Needle arthroscopy could be performed rapidly with low morbidity, and had high accuracy for detecting medial meniscal tears in dogs with CCLR., Clinical Significance: Needle arthroscopy is a promising minimally invasive technique for diagnosing medial meniscal tears in dogs with CCLR., (© 2022 American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective:  The aim of this study was to assess the kinetic and radiographic outcome of unilateral double pelvic osteotomy (DPO) using a temporospatial pressure walkway, preoperative and postoperative radiographs., Study Design:  Retrospective case series of six dogs that underwent unilateral DPO for canine hip dysplasia. The untreated limb was unfit for DPO due to radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis and was therefore managed non-surgically. Preoperative and postoperative radiographs and kinetic data were compared between untreated and DPO-treated hips using a Wilcoxon signed-rank test., Results:  There was no significant difference in British Veterinary Association Hip Dysplasia Scheme (BVA-HD) scores between untreated and DPO-treated hips preoperatively ( p -value = 0.09) and postoperatively ( p -value = 0.06). The median postoperative GAIT4 Dog Lameness Score was lower in untreated hips than DPO-treated hips but was not statistically different ( p -value = 0.18)., Conclusions:  All dogs in this case series achieved a total pressure index and GAIT4 Dog Lameness Score on the DPO-treated hip comparable to normal limbs. All untreated hips in this series had increased BVA-HD scores at follow-up, whereas all DPO-treated hips had reduced BVA-HD scores. This difference was not significant and warrants further studies. We conclude total pressure index may be preserved in hips treated with unilateral DPO, while the contralateral hip is managed non-surgically., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

The objective of this study was to report long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes following arthroscopic reparative treatment - flap removal, curettage, and osteostixis of subchondral bone - in dogs with humeral trochlea osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). Dogs were included in this retrospective multicenter case series if they had a computed tomography diagnostic of humeral trochlear OCD, with or without medial coronoid disease, that was treated by arthroscopic reparative technique, and a detailed follow-up at least 6 mo postoperatively. The latter included a clinical examination, assessment of lameness, measurement of the brachial circumference and elbow amplitude, International Elbow Working Group (IEWG) radiographic score, owner-completed canine brief pain inventory (CBPI) score, and visual analogue scale (VAS) rating. A generalized linear model and tests for symmetry and marginal homogeneity were used to compare data. Twenty-three dogs (30 affected elbows) were included. Long-term (median: 22 mo; range: 6 to 98 mo) postoperative lameness, CBPI, VAS, joint distension, and pain scores were significantly improved compared with the preoperative values. Long-term postoperative range of motion and brachial circumference did not reveal any significant difference between OCD-affected and unaffected elbows. Long-term IEWG scores were similar to preoperative values in 56% of elbows and had progressed by 1 grade in 44%. Long-term complications included persistent Grade-1 lameness and occurred in 23% of dogs. Long-term outcomes based on lameness and CBPI scores were considered excellent in 67% of dogs, good in 27%, and intermediate in 6%. Arthroscopic treatment is thus a suitable surgical procedure for OCD of the humeral trochlea in dogs and provides good long-term results., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest None of the authors of this article has a financial or personal relationship with other people or organizations that could inappropriately influence or bias its content., (Copyright and/or publishing rights held by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.)

Background: Surgical stabilisation of the distal phalanx (DP) is a potential therapeutic strategy for severe acute laminitis., Objective: To evaluate the effects of locking compression plate (LCP) fixation of the DP to the dorsal hoof wall., Study Design: Ex vivo and in vivo experiments., Methods: A T-shaped LCP was applied to one limb per pair in six pairs of cadaver forelimbs subjected to a combination of thermally induced lamellar failure and vertical load to simulate severe acute laminitis. Standard radiographic measurements were used to compare DP displacement. The LCP was then applied to one forefoot in 12 healthy Standardbred horses either standing (n = 6) or under general anaesthesia (n = 6). Lameness was evaluated daily, then horses were euthanised (day 8) and lamellar tissue analysed using light microscopy, histomorphometery and molecular markers of apoptosis., Results: In the cadaver limb model, LCP fixation prevented the significant changes in hoof-distal phalanx distance, coronary extensor process distance and sole depth that characterised DP displacement in untreated limbs (p < 0.05). Application of the construct in vivo was well tolerated with minimal lameness (10/12 horses were sound at the trot on day 8); however, histology revealed dorsal lamellar pathology consistent with laminitis, but with extensive keratinocyte apoptosis. Adjacent to the LCP, caspase-3 positive cell counts were approximately 20-fold higher than control (p < 0.001)., Main Limitations: Pathology was evaluated at a single time point. Microvascular perfusion was not evaluated., Conclusions: Rigid fixation of the DP to the hoof capsule was achieved with the LCP construct in a cadaver limb laminitis model. In live horses, LCP fixation caused regional lamellar pathology with extensive apoptosis, likely due to disturbed lamellar microvascular perfusion and/or mechanostasis. Understanding these mechanisms is critical for refinement of the technique in order to avoid iatrogenic lamellar damage., (© 2022 The Authors. Equine Veterinary Journal published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of EVJ Ltd.)

A 2.5-year-old female Valais black-nosed sheep was referred to the University Clinic for Ruminants at the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, with a history of sudden lameness after shearing. The sheep showed a moderate mixed lameness of the right hind limb, the hip joint area was painful on palpation; the pelvic limb was presented as stretched as possible. After the clinical examination, the suspected diagnosis of a right-sided hip joint dislocation was made, which was subsequently confirmed radiologically (luxatio ossis femoris dextra to caudoventral and medial). An open, manual reposition was performed under general anesthesia. A toggle pin was used as a prosthetic ligament replacement for the femoral head ligament, further stabilization was achieved by means of an iliofemoral loop fixation within the fascia of the gluteal muscles.The movement possibilities of the sheep during the postoperative healing phase were severely restricted and 8 weeks of stall rest were ensured. The healing process was uncomplicated. Telephone enquiry 6 months following the surgical intervention revealed that the sheep was free of lameness, kept up with the herd, and displayed a normal general condition.The success of surgery and the use of the procedure in livestock practice is limited by the necessity of rapid intervention after the trauma has occurred, the willingness of the animal owner to bear the costs associated with the operation under general anesthesia as well as to ensure the long post-operative follow-up care with controlled restriction of movement., Competing Interests: Die Autoren bestätigen, dass kein Interessenkonflikt besteht.Dieser Artikel ist Dr. H. Strobel gewidmet, der uns leider viel zu früh verlassen hat. Wir werden sein großes Wissen und kollegiales Wirken sehr vermissen und ihn stets in Erinnerung behalten., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Case History: Dogs (n = 15) that were presented to a single veterinary teaching hospital with elbow dysplasia-associated lameness between September 2021 and May 2022, and were determined to require arthroscopy based on imaging results, were prospectively recruited into the study. The median duration of lameness was 4 (min 1, max 24) months., Clinical Findings: Various breeds were represented with a median body weight of 31.6 (min 15, max 46.4) kg and median age at presentation of 14 (min 8, max 83) months. Results of imaging modalities (CT) were consistent with medial coronoid disease with fissured or fragmented medial coronoid process in all dogs., Arthroscopic Findings: Feasibility of the needle arthroscopy (NA) procedure was firstly assessed in a preliminary cadaveric study in forelimbs (n = 10) collected from 10 adult dogs euthanised for reasons unrelated to the study. Elbow exploration was performed through a medial approach beginning with NA (1.9 mm 0° angle scope) followed by standard arthroscopy (SA; 2.4 mm 30° angle scope). The quality and extent of visualisation (scored through the number of anatomical structures visualised) were recorded and statistically compared. As the cadaver study indicated that NA allowed safe inspection of all structures in medial/caudal compartments, this procedure was then used in the dogs requiring treatment. In the clinical setting, elbow exploration was successful in all dogs and the treatment (removal of osteochondral fragments) was performed without requiring conversion into SA. One month after surgery, all dogs had an improvement in their lameness score (0-5) and 12/15 dogs were no longer lame. There was a reduction in Canine Orthopaedic Index scores measured a median of 99 (min 47, max 180) days after surgery (24 (IQR 19.5-31.5)) compared to the pre-operative period (49 (IQR 46.5-57); p < 0.001)., Clinical Relevance: Needle arthroscopy-assisted removal of osteochondral fragments was performed in all dogs with satisfactory short-term clinical outcome. NA is a feasible technique for diagnosis and lesion assessment in dogs with a fissured or fragmented coronoid process. Larger clinical studies with longer follow-up are necessary to validate the NanoScope operative arthroscopy system as an alternative strategy to SA for video-assisted treatment of medial coronoid disease.

Proliferative tenosynovitis (PT) is an inflammatory and proliferative disorder of the synovial membrane of the tendon sheath that is rare in animals. The histological alterations are characterized by multinodular neovascularization, with infiltration of histiocytic and multinucleated giant cells and haemosiderin deposition. We reviewed necropsy and biopsy records of horses submitted to the Setor de Anatomia Patológica of the Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro from January 2017 to December 2020 to select cases of PT. We identified PT in three adult Brazilian Mangalarga Marchador horses with nodular lesions on the metacarpophalangeal, metatarsophalangeal or carpal joints. The three horses were under 6 years of age and presented with lameness and pain on palpation. There were recurrences in two horses after surgical removal. Radiographic and ultrasound examinations detected masses in the flexor or extensor tendons and subtendinous bursa. Histological study of synovial membrane and tendon sheath revealed an increased number of vessels, fibroplasia, osseous metaplasia and infiltration of lymphocytes, plasma cells and siderophages. This is the first description of PT in horses, which should be included as an orthopaedic differential diagnosis, especially in Mangalarga Marchador horses with lameness., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To determine the influence of radiographic examination on the recommendations made at the time of planned re-evaluation of dogs after medial patellar luxation (MPL) surgery., Study Design: Retrospective multi-institutional case series., Animals: Client-owned dogs (N = 825) that underwent MPL surgery., Methods: Records of 10 referral institutions were searched for dogs that had been treated surgically for unilateral MPL and underwent a planned follow-up visit, including radiographs. The frequency of, and reasons for, changes in further recovery recommendations were investigated., Results: Follow up was performed at a median of 6 (range, 4-20) weeks postoperatively. Isolated radiographic abnormalities were identified in 3.3% (27/825) of dogs following MPL surgery and led to a change in recommendations in 3% (13/432) of dogs that were presented without owner or clinician concerns. Lameness, administration of analgesia at follow up, and history of unplanned visits prior to routine re-examination were associated with a change in postoperative plan (P < .001). In the absence of owner and clinician concerns, the odds of having a change in convalescence plans were not different, whether or not isolated radiographic abnormalities were present (P = .641)., Conclusion: Routine radiographs at follow up did not influence postoperative management of most dogs after MPL surgery in the absence of abnormalities on clinical history or orthopedic examination., Clinical Significance: Dogs that were presented for routine follow up after unilateral MPL surgery without owner concerns, lameness, analgesic treatment or a history of unplanned visits, and for which examination by a surgical specialist was unremarkable, were unlikely to benefit from radiographs., (© 2023 American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Tapirs are endangered terrestrial mammals that inhabit several continents. They have anatomical similarities to horses, sharing a common ancestral lineage. This article reports the case of a 14-yr-old female lowland tapir ( Tapirus terrestris ) presented for intermittent lameness due to upward fixation of the patella causing extension of the limb in the caudal phase of the stride. Medial patellar desmotomy was performed under general anesthesia, correcting the problem. To date there are no reports of this condition or treatment recommendations in tapirs. An anatomical study including stifle dissection, advanced MRI, and CT was performed in a separate lowland tapir. According to the clinical case and the anatomical findings in the other lowland tapir, upward fixation of the patella may occur in the tapir, although the anatomy varies slightly from that of the horse. Because the lowland tapir does not have parapatellar cartilage or as large of a medial patellar ligament or medial trochlea of the distal femur compared to the horse, more severe disease secondary to complete or persistent upward fixation of the patella may not occur in tapirs. Rather, mild forms of the disease associated with intermittent upward fixation of the patella or delayed patellar release appear more likely in the tapir.

Background: In the last 30 years, several treatments have been proposed to treat subchondral cystic lesions (SCLs) but there have been no randomised studies to compare different methods and there is no consensus as to the optimal treatment., Objectives: To evaluate a biocompatible absorbable implant for the treatment of SCLs in young horses in different anatomical locations., Study Design: Retrospective case series., Methods: Horses with SCLs were treated with debridement through a trans-cortical extra-articular approach and an absorbable implant was inserted in the cavity. Clinical and radiographic follow-up was recorded and follow up ranged from 28 to 46 months (mean 37 months). Racing records were reviewed., Results: Thirty-eight horses between 10 and 24 months of age were included in the study. In 36 of 38 horses treated, lameness resolved, and 77% average filling of the cyst was measured 120 days after surgery on radiographs. In two cases, surgical complications were recorded., Main Limitations: Information about the resorption of the implant is not available. Radiographs were performed in various hospitals or at farms or training stables, therefore, possible minor variations in technique and positioning occurred., Conclusions: The extra-articular approach to the SCLs followed by the insertion of the absorbable implant led to clinical and radiographic improvement of the SCLs at 120 days after surgery. This technique, feasible in different anatomical locations, may offer an alternative to treat SCLs in young horses., (© 2021 EVJ Ltd.)

Background: Hyperbaric gaseous cryotherapy (HGC) is a type of cryotherapy used in human medicine for rehabilitation after orthopedic surgeries. Because HGC is known to reduce acute or chronic pain, research is needed to prove its effectiveness in veterinary medicine., Objectives: To compare the effects of HGC between the HGC treatment group and the nontreatment (NT) group on postoperative swelling, range of motion, lameness score, postoperative pain, and kinetic measurements after stifle joint surgery in dogs., Methods: Dogs were randomized in an HGC group or NT groups. In the HGC group, HGC was applied once a day for a total of 2 days after surgery. All parameters were measured postoperatively and at 1, 2, 10, and 28 days after surgery., Results: Twenty dogs were enrolled: 10 in the HGC group and 10 in the NT group. Soft tissue swelling was not significantly different between groups at any time point. In the HGC group, pain scores decreased significantly 24 h after surgery and 48 h after surgery. Dogs in the HGC group showed a significantly decreased lameness and improvement for all kinetic measurements beginning 48 h after surgery. In addition, the HGC group indicated a significant increase in range of motion as compared with the NT group at 28 days after surgery., Conclusions: HGC plays a powerful role in decreasing initial postoperative pain. Furthermore, the improvement in pain affects the use of the operated limb, and the continued use of the limb eventually assists in the quick recovery of normal function., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest., (© 2021 The Korean Society of Veterinary Science.)

Objective: To assess and compare the magnitude of lameness and level of pain after muscle-sparing lateral thoracotomy (MSLT) and standard lateral thoracotomy (SLT) in dogs., Study Design: Randomized, blinded, prospective clinical study., Animals: Twenty-eight client-owned dogs., Methods: The latissimus dorsi muscle was retracted in the MSLT group and was transected in the SLT group. Gait was analyzed with a force plate, and the peak vertical force symmetry index (SI) was calculated within 24 hours before surgery, 3 days postoperatively, and 8 to 12 weeks postoperatively. Symmetry index and pain scores as measured by the Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale - Short Form were assessed as primary outcome measures., Results: The SI 3 days postoperatively was lower compared with the preoperative SI value in all dogs, consistent with lameness of the ipsilateral thoracic limb (P < .001). The absolute differences in preoperative and 3-day-postoperative SI provided evidence that this change was 3.1-fold greater after SLT compared with after MSLT (P = .009). Pain scores 1 day after surgery were lower after MSLT (1) compared with after SLT (2.5, P < .001)., Conclusion: Lateral thoracotomies caused postoperative pain and ipsilateral forelimb lameness, and both were reduced by sparing the latissimus dorsi., Clinical Significance: Sparing the latissimus dorsi should be considered to decrease immediate postoperative morbidity in dogs undergoing lateral thoracotomy., (© 2021 The Authors. Veterinary Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. on behalf of American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective:  The aim of this study was to describe short- and mid-term outcomes, complications, implant bioabsorption and owner satisfaction for a modified Maquet procedure (MMP) in which a novel bioabsorbable citrate-based implant is used as the wedge component to treat cranial cruciate ligament rupture in client-owned dogs., Study Design:  Prospective clinical study of dogs ( n  = 13) undergoing MMP ( n  = 15). Intraoperative complications, postoperative complications, clinical follow-up using a 5-point lameness score and radiographs at 8 weeks and 6 months postoperatively were obtained. Mid-term outcome was assessed via physical examination, radiographs, canine orthopaedic index and owner satisfaction questionnaires., Results:  No catastrophic complications occurred. Major complications occurred in 3/15 stifles. All were surgical site infections and one case required implant removal. Minor complications occurred in 9/15 stifles. Non-displaced cortical hinge fractures were the most common minor complication, and these occurred intraoperatively (4/15) or postoperatively (2/15). Three dogs achieved full function, eight dogs acceptable function and the outcome was unacceptable in two dogs. Most owners were satisfied with the procedure (11/13). Complete implant bioabsorption was not confirmed on mid-term radiographs., Conclusion:  The described MMP with a citrate-based implant can produce satisfactory mid-term results. However, the long-term outcome of this procedure must be evaluated and technical modifications need to be implemented prior to larger-scale use of this implant., Competing Interests: R.M.D. is a paid consultant for New Generation Devices. A.T. has no conflict of interest to disclose., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Resection of the distal interphalangeal joint (DIJ) is a claw-preserving method for treatment of septic arthritis. This study presents the radiographic and histological findings of the surgically-treated area after resection of the DIJ using a plantar approach in seven German Holstein cows. Histological postmortem evaluation 439 to 710 days after surgery showed that there was extensive proliferation of connective tissue rich in collagen fibres in the space left after resection in three cows; this was classified as fibrous ankylosis. In the remaining four cows, histological evaluation 1010 to 1756 days after surgery showed extensive new bone formation in the joint cavity consistent with osseous ankylosis. Radiographs of the resected DIJ region obtained at the time of histological examination revealed no osseous ankylosis in two cows, partial ankylosis in one cow and complete osseous ankylosis in four cows. Formation of complete osseous ankylosis after resection of the DIJ did take longer than 1-2 years in three of our specimens indicating a longer time span compared to earlier studies., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To describe subchondral lucencies (SCL) in the equine proximal tibia, several treatment options, and clinical outcomes., Study Design: Retrospective study., Animals: Seventeen horses with proximal tibial SCL., Methods: Medical record and radiograph review. Follow-up was obtained via examination and radiography when possible and by telephone and race records when required. The median duration of follow-up was 20 months (range, 0-48)., Results: Proximal tibial SCL were associated with lameness in 14 of 17 horses. Subchondral lucencies were primary in 11 horses and secondary to an ipsilateral medial femoral condyle SCL in six horses. One foal with a primary SCL was euthanized because of osteomyelitis. Six horses ≤1 year old with primary SCL were managed with exercise restrictions only; SCL in three horses without lameness decreased in size, whereas three horses with lameness did not improve. One young horse treated with surgical debridement failed to improve and was euthanized. Lameness resolved in three horses with primary tibial SCL treated with screw fixation. Screw fixation of secondary SCL in five horses led to a reduction in SCL size and degree of lameness., Conclusion: Primary tibial SCL healed with rest in 3 non-lame young horses with small SCL, but was not successful in lame horses with larger SC. Radiographic size and associated lameness improved or resolved with screw fixation in primary and secondary proximal tibial SCL., Clinical Significance: Primary tibial SCL that did not cause lameness healed with conservative management, but persistent primary and secondary tibial SCL required screw fixation to reduce lameness., (© 2020 The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Background: Traumatic caudal elbow luxation is an uncommon injury and it is rarely reported in the cat. Closed reduction is considered in early instance but open reduction and stabilization should be evaluated if the joint cannot be reduced or if gross instability persist., Case Description: This case report described two Domestic Shorthaired cats referred for monolateral forelimb non-weight bearing lameness caused by trauma. Clinical and radiographic examinations revealed a caudal elbow luxation in both patients. The cats were treated with closed reduction and the elbow joints stabilized at 40° of flexion by a transarticular external skeletal fixation for 18-22 days. The follow-up examinations at 2 months and at 3 years showed mild and moderate radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis, respectively, but good elbow function in both patients., Conclusion: This technique, for the treatment of the traumatic caudal elbow luxation, is easy and straightforward with few complications and to the authors' knowledge was not previously reported in cats., Competing Interests: The authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/ or publication of this article.

Background: Canine transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) is the most common type of malignant tumor of the urinary system. This tumor rarely metastasizes to bones, and dogs most commonly present with lower urinary tract signs., Case Description: An 8-year-old female spayed beagle presented with unilateral front-limb lameness in which pain was localized to the shoulder joint. Surgical bone biopsy following abnormal radiographic lesions noted in the scapula was consistent with metastatic carcinoma of unknown origin. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a mass in the trigone region of the urinary bladder, which was cytologically confirmed to be a transitional cell carcinoma. Amputation was elected due to severity of the limb pain, and chemotherapy for the TCC was scheduled to follow after healing from surgery was complete. At the 2-week recheck for commencement of chemotherapy, the patient was anemic and a pathologic fracture was found on the L5 vertebra. Due to poor prognosis, the owner elected for humane euthanasia., Conclusion: This case report documents the clinical and pathological findings of a dog where metastasis to a rarely documented distant bone site secondary to TCC was diagnosed before the primary tumor. The unusual sequence of events described in this case report is a reminder to always consider all the possible differential diagnoses, as that may influence our recommendation on diagnostics and treatment.

Case Description: 4 calves were evaluated because of lameness and an angular limb deformity of the metatarsophalangeal region., Clinical Findings: 3 calves (ages, 5 days, 10 days, and 1 month) had a congenital varus deformity of the metatarsophalangeal region characterized by medial subluxation of the first phalanx of digits 3 and 4 at the metatarsophalangeal joints. A 6-month-old heifer had a valgus deformity of the metatarsophalangeal region secondary to a malunion of a Salter-Harris type II fracture. The degree of deformity angulation ranged from 16° to 54° for the 4 patients., Treatment and Outcome: A closing wedge ostectomy with transfixation pin-cast application was performed on the affected limb of all 4 patients. The ostectomy healed with only minor complications (disuse osteopenia distal to the transfixation pins [n = 4] and cast sores [1]) that were easily resolved with no long-term adverse effects. Duration of follow-up for the 4 patients ranged from 6 to 17 months, and the owners reported satisfactory ambulation with no (n = 2) or only mild (2) residual lameness in the affected limb., Clinical Relevance: Results suggested that a closing wedge ostectomy with transfixation pin-cast stabilization is an alternative for management of angular limb deformities of the metatarsophalangeal region in cattle. Such treatment improved the quality of life for all 4 patients. However, 2 of the 4 patients had congenital deformities confirmed to be heritable. There are ethical concerns associated with treating animals with heritable disorders, and exhibition and breeding of such animals should be avoided.

Objective: To determine the holding capacity of a 5.5-mm-diameter cortical bone screw when placed in the third phalanx (P3) of horses and assess whether screw placement through the dorsal hoof wall into P3 would be tolerated by clinically normal horses and would alleviate signs of pain and prevent P3 rotation in horses with oligofructose-induced laminitis., Animals: 40 limbs from 10 equine cadavers and 19 clinically normal adult horses., Procedures: In part 1 of a 3-part study, a 5.5-mm-diameter cortical bone screw was inserted by use of a lag-screw technique through the dorsal hoof wall midline into P3 of 40 cadaveric limbs and tested to failure to determine screw pullout force. In part 2, 6 horses had 5.5-mm-diameter cortical bone screws placed in both forefeet as described for part 1. Screws were removed 4 days after placement. Horses were monitored for lameness before and for 2 weeks after screw removal. In part 3, 13 horses were randomly assigned to serve as controls (n = 3) or undergo screw placement without (group 2; 6) or with (group 3; 4) a washer. Following the acquisition of baseline data, horses were sedated and administered oligofructose (10 g/kg) via a stomach tube. Twenty-four hours later, screws were placed as previously described in both forefeet of horses in groups 2 and 3. Horses were assessed every 4 hours, and radiographic images of the feet were obtained at 96 and 120 hours after oligofructose administration. Horses were euthanized, and the feet were harvested for histologic examination., Results: The mean ± SD screw pullout force was 3,908.7 ± 1,473.4 N, and it was positively affected by the depth of screw insertion into P3. Horses of part 2 tolerated screw placement and removal well and did not become lame. All horses of part 3 developed signs of acute lameness, and the distance between P3 and the dorsal hoof wall increased slightly over time. The change in the ratio of the dorsal hoof wall width at the extensor process of P3 to that at the tip of P3 over time was the only variable significantly associated with treatment., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Placement of a 5.5-mm-diameter cortical bone screw through the dorsal hoof wall into P3 had sufficient holding power to counteract the pull of the deep digital flexor tendon in approximately 500-kg horses, and placement of such a screw was well tolerated by clinically normal horses but did not alleviate signs of pain in horses with oligofructose-induced laminitis. Further research is necessary before this technique can be recommended for horses with naturally occurring acute laminitis.

Two cows were referred to our clinic with moderate to severe hindlimb lameness due to infected wounds over the lateral and caudal aspect of tuber calcanei (TC) with regional swelling, consistent with septic subtendinous calcaneal bursitis. Ultrasonography (7.5 MHz linear probe) revealed fibrinous/fibrino-purulent inflammatory bursal effusions in both cows, complete rupture of the superficial digital flexor tendon and a small, circumscribed, irregular and rough bone contour of the TC in case 2. Radiography revealed physiological findings in case 1, whereas there were osteomyelitis and later bone sequestration in case 2. Treatment consisted of thorough wound debridement, establishing access to the bursa, removal of all exudate and fibrin, creation of additional drainage portals and meticulous lavage using sterile 0.9 % saline solution containing 0.1 % povidone-iodine performed under sedation and intravenous regional anesthesia. In case 2, the infected bone area of the TC was removed using a curette. However, a small bone sequestration developed from the TC 15 days later, which was associated with osteomyelitis. This was removed during a second surgical intervention. Systemic antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory medications were administered peri- and post-surgically and the bursae flushed repeatedly. The affected tarsi were covered with a modified Robert-Jones bandage or a fiberglass cast. Cows 1 and 2 were discharged from the clinic 25 and 27 days after initial surgery, respectively, displaying mild lameness. Both cows were alive, not lame and were in advanced stages of pregnancy at the time of manuscript submission 8 and 12 months later, respectively. This report describes in detail 2 severe cases of septic fibrino-purulent subtendinous calcaneal bursitis in cows that were successfully treated by surgical debridement and lavage under a practical anesthetic protocol, followed by proper wound management in the post-surgical period. These effective surgical procedures can be performed under field conditions given the availability of adequate equipment., Competing Interests: The authors confirm that there is no conflict of interest., (© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.)

Objective:  The aim of this study was to report the technique, experience and outcome of standing arthroscopic removal of dorsal osteochondral fragmentation of the metacarpophalangeal and metatarsophalangeal joint using a 1.2-mm needle arthroscope., Study Design:  This was a prospective clinical study., Materials and Methods:  All horses referred for standing arthroscopic removal of dorsoproximal first phalanx fragments or fragments embedded in the distal aspect of the synovial plica were included. Relevant information from the cases was recorded. Follow-up was obtained by a telephone questionnaire., Results:  Twenty-one horses with a mean age of 4.5 years old were included. Osteochondral fragments removed were from the proximal margin of first phalanx in 18 horses (24 joints), in the synovial plica in 2 horses (2 joints) or free-floating fragment in 1 horse (1 joint). Fifteen out of twenty-one horses were unilaterally affected and 6/21 bilaterally. Fifteen out of twenty-seven affected joints were forelimbs and 12/27 hindlimbs. All articular structures within the dorsal recess of the joint were visible. The arthroscope was deemed easy to use and manoeuvre. Only minor complications occurred during the procedure. Surgery time was 15 to 20 minutes for most patients., Conclusions:  All fragments were successfully removed and needle arthroscopy allowed a thorough evaluation of the dorsal aspect of the joint. The technique offers an alternative for standing fetlock arthroscopy for surgeons concerned about equipment damage or portability., Competing Interests: The authors declare no financial or other conflicts related to Biovision or this study., (Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.)

Aims: To report the clinical outcomes and complications after the use of 3.5 mm/2.7 mm locking compression plates (LCP) with additional internal fixation for pancarpal arthrodesis (PCA) in dogs., Methods: This was a retrospective study using medical records from a single orthopaedic referral hospital between December 2015 and April 2018. The inclusion criteria were the use of a dorsally applied LCP for PCA in dogs with a minimum follow-up period of 12 months. Additional crossed 2.7 or 3.5 mm cortical screws or Kirschner wires were placed in all limbs to further stabilise the joints. A light dressing without external coaptation was applied postoperatively to all limbs. Postoperative lameness assessment was recorded at the last clinical evaluation., Results: Twelve dogs with 13 arthrodesed limbs were included, with carpal hyperextension injury being the most common indication for surgery (4/13; 31%). One dog was recorded with a minor complication, which was a metacarpal fracture distal to the bone plate. Major complications were observed in 4/13 (31%) limbs, with surgical site infection being recorded in all four limbs and screw loosening in one limb. No implant failure was reported. At the final clinical evaluation (43-437 days after surgery), none or mechanical lameness was recorded in 9/13 (69%) limbs, mild lameness in 3/13 (23%) limbs, and moderate lameness in one 1/13 (8%) limb., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Locking plate and screw fixation with additional internal fixation resulted in comparable complication and infection rates in canine PCA to previous published studies using hybrid dynamic compression plates. No implant failure was reported for any of the limbs despite the use of a light dressing without external coaptation.

Objective: To report the outcome of horses engaged in Western performance disciplines after stifle arthroscopy and identify prognostic factors for return to performance., Study Design: Retrospective case series., Sample Population: Eighty-two Western performance horses undergoing stifle arthroscopy., Methods: Medical records were reviewed for horses involved in athletic performance/training for various Western performance disciplines and undergoing arthroscopy for lameness localized to the stifle. Follow-up was obtained ≥2 years postoperatively by telephone interviews with the owners. Preoperative and intraoperative findings as well as postoperative treatment were analyzed for their association with return to athletic performance as the primary outcome of interest., Results: The most common disciplines represented were cutting (n = 38), Western pleasure (n = 13), and reining (n = 13). Approximately 40% (32/82) of horses returned to intended use after surgery. Increased age, higher degree of lameness, longer duration of lameness, and the presence of partial-thickness cartilage lesions decreased the odds of returning to athletic performance. Postoperative therapies (intra-articular: stem cells, corticosteroids, interleukin-1 receptor antagonist protein, hyaluronic acid/polysulfated glycosaminoglycans; systemic: nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs, hyaluronic acid/polysulfated glycosaminoglycans, oral joint supplements) did not affect the odds of returning to intended use., Conclusion: Less than half of the Western performance horses that underwent stifle arthroscopy returned to intended use. Older age, longer duration of lameness, and presence of partial-thickness cartilage lesions affected the odds of a horse returning to intended use. Postoperative therapies did not affect the outcome in this population., Clinical Significance: The prognosis of Western performance horses undergoing stifle arthroscopy is as guarded as that previously reported in horses of other disciplines., (© 2019 The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: To describe the use of an aiming device (AD) and computed tomography (CT) for preoperative planning and intraoperative guided debridement of subchondral cystic lesions (SCL) in the limbs of horses and to determine the outcome 12 months after surgery., Study Design: Prospective case series., Animals: Twelve horses referred because of lameness caused by 1 or 2 SCL (total of 14 SCL)., Methods: All horses underwent CT-guided debridement of the SCL. The entry point of the drill bit and direction of drilling were planned and controlled by using a series of CT images and the AD. The SCL were curetted and filled with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2. Surgical times were calculated, and the outcome was determined 12 months after surgery., Results: The use of an AD and CT allowed precise and straightforward drilling of the SCL. The entry point of the drill bit into the SCL was considered optimal in 11 SCL and satisfactory in 3 SCL, and the lesions could be precisely debrided with preservation of the adjacent subchondral bone in all cases. There were no complications. Mean (range) surgery time was 75 (45-115) minutes. The outcome 12 months postoperatively was favorable in 10 of 11 horses. One horse died due to unrelated reasons., Conclusion: The use of CT and an AD allowed precise debridement of all SCL in the limbs of 12 horses., Clinical Significance: CT-guided surgical debridement of SCL of the equine digit appears to result in a favorable outcome., (© 2018 The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objective: To quantitate the iatrogenic injury associated with deep plantar metatarsal fasciotomy performed with Metzenbaum scissors compared with a Y-shaped fasciotome., Study Design: Experimental ex vivo surgical study., Study Population: Cadaveric hind limbs (n = 20) from 10 sound thoroughbred racehorses., Methods: A plantar metatarsal fasciotomy was performed, extending from the proximal extent of the deep metatarsal fascia, distally. Hind limbs were randomly assigned to 2 groups, undergoing fasciotomy with straight Metzenbaum scissors (n = 10) or a Y-shaped fasciotome (n = 10). Magnetic resonance imaging was performed before and after surgery to identify the maximal depth of any iatrogenic trauma. Gross examination of the surgical site included measuring the length of the incision in the deep metatarsal fascia and localizing iatrogenic trauma sustained by the plantar aspect of the proximal suspensory ligament (PSL) during the procedure., Results: Iatrogenic injury to the PSL was identified in 6 of 10 and 9 of 10 specimens prepared with the fasciotome and Metzenbaum scissors, respectively (P = .03), and was most commonly located in the distal third of the fascial incision. Differences between the length of incision (P = .02) and the maximal depth of signal (P = .03) for incisions created with Metzenbaum scissors or a fasciotome were identified., Conclusion: The use of a fasciotome resulted in longer fascial incisions and less severe iatrogenic trauma to the PSL compared with using Metzenbaum scissors., Clinical Significance: A Y-shaped fasciotome may be the preferred surgical instrument for successful desmopathy of the PSL fasciotomy because a greater release of compartmental pressure is possible through a longer incision with minimal iatrogenic trauma to the underlying PSL., (© 2018 The American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

Objectives:  The purpose of this study was to compare the long-term outcome of dogs with medial coronoid process disease (MCPD) treated with arthroscopic intervention versus conservative management., Materials and Methods:  Medical records of dogs with MCPD treated by arthroscopic intervention or conservative management over an 8-year period were retrospectively reviewed. Long-term outcome (>12 months) was assessed via owner questionnaire including Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs (LOAD) scores and Canine Brief Pain Inventory scores., Results:  Data from 67 clinically affected elbow joints (67 dogs) diagnosed with MCPD on computed tomography were included. Forty-four dogs underwent arthroscopic intervention and 23 dogs were treated with conservative management. The median LOAD and Pain Severity Score (PSS) for dogs in the arthroscopic intervention group compared with the conservatively managed group were not significantly different ( p  = 0.066 and p  = 0.10, respectively). The median Pain Interference Score (PIS) was significantly higher in the arthroscopic intervention group versus the conservative management group ( p  = 0.028). There was no significant difference after controlling for age. For LOAD, PSS and PIS, older age at diagnosis was all significantly associated with higher scores ( p  = 0.048, p  = 0.026 and p  = 0.046, respectively) and older age at time of questionnaire completion showed a stronger association with the scores ( p ≤0.001 for all)., Clinical Significance:  Arthroscopic intervention showed no long-term benefit over conservative management for dogs with MCPD., Competing Interests: None., (Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.)

Assessment of lameness in cattle after foot surgery is important to monitor the recovery period, to improve the long-term success and the cows` welfare. This longitudinal multicenter retrospective study was carried out to evaluate the usefulness of automated tools of weight bearing and gait analysis following foot surgery to support the clinician to monitor lameness in cattle. For this purpose, the effect of involvement of different anatomical structures and the use of different surgery methods on gait parameters of post-operative recovery was assessed. The study consisted of 2 experiments and included cattle with unilateral foot pathologies located in the digital region which needed 1 (experiment 1; n = 30) or 2 (experiment 2; n = 4) surgical interventions. The surgical techniques were debridement, joint lavage, partial resection of bones, tendons or synovial structures, total resection of the sesamoid bone and digit amputation. Two accelerometers (400 Hz; kinematic outcome = stance phase duration; kinetic outcome = foot load and toe-off), a 4-scale weighing platform (difference of mean weight distribution across the limbs; Δweight) and a subjective locomotion score were used to evaluate gait parameters every 3 to 4 days after surgery. A repeated measures ANOVA was used in experiment 1 and a receiver operator characteristic analysis was used to determine the optimal cutoff values in experiment 2. Results showed that the differences across limbs for the pedogram variables of stance phases and peaks of foot load and toe-off, Δweight and the locomotion score were highest if joints or sesamoid bones were involved, suggesting that these cattle were more severely lame compared to cattle with more superficial foot pathologies. There was a significantly lower degree of lameness after surgical debridement and after digit amputation compared to partial and total resection of anatomical structures of the foot. The use of accelerometers and a 4-scale weighing platform represent promising objective tools for post-operative monitoring of lameness and can support the clinician in gait assessment to improve the long-term success of surgical interventions in the area of the foot., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Foot problems are very common causes of lameness in horses. With the recent diagnostic advances to evaluate and treat foot pathology as well as to monitor response to therapy, it is now possible to more accurately evaluate the effectiveness of many of these treatments. This review details some of the recent advances of the most common conservative and surgical treatment options for foot problems in horses, including an overview of evidence on the efficacy to support the use of these treatment options and on factors that may affect prognosis., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

The intertarsal joint is a synovial roll-and-glide joint. Ligament damage and luxations of this joint are often the result of traumatic injury or growth deformities and result in significant functional impairment. A 9-month-old female Pekin duck ( Anas platyrhynchos domesticus) was examined because of progressive, nonweight-bearing lameness of the left leg. Moderate effusive swelling was present at the level of the left intertarsal joint, without radiographic evidence of bone involvement. The duck failed to respond to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications and analgesia and was diagnosed with rupture of the medial collateral ligament. Extracapsular surgical correction using bone tunnels and circumferential nylon suture on the medial aspect of the intertarsal joint led to a complete clinical resolution with normal return to function 2 weeks after surgery. This report reviews the anatomy and function of the intertarsal joint in the duck and details a simple extracapsular repair technique useful in the correction of collateral ligament rupture in this joint of ducks.

A 2-year-old Pomeranian goose ( Anser anser) weighing 8.1 kg was examined because of non-weight-bearing lameness of the right limb. A closed, transverse, diaphyseal fracture of the distal third of the right tibiotarsus with a craniolateral displacement of the distal fragment was diagnosed radiographically. Surgery under general anesthesia was performed to repair the fracture with a 14-hole, 2.7-mm locking plate fixed with 6 screws in a bicortical manner. Two days later, the bird was fully weight-bearing on the leg. Radiographs performed 4 and 8 weeks after surgery showed good healing of the affected bone with an appropriate callus formation bridging the fracture line. Sixteen weeks after surgery, the patient was readmitted because of lameness exhibited while staying outside exposed to subzero (°C) temperatures. On the basis of this finding, heat conduction was postulated as the possible cause of lameness because it disappeared after implant removal. To the best our knowledge, this case represents the first report of a surgical repair of a tibiotarsal fracture with a locking plate in waterfowl.